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The University of Cape Town (UCT) would like to inform staff and students about a recent increase in the number of COVID-19 cases on and around campus.
The Western Cape Department of Health has identified cluster outbreaks of COVID-19 in the southern suburbs (currently 63 cases), and at least three UCT students have tested positive for COVID-19 in these outbreaks. We have also noted several smaller cluster outbreaks.
It is therefore more important than ever that you continue safe health practices.
The World Health Organization warns us about the “Three Cs” to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 in different settings:
The Student Wellness Service has received reports of UCT students who have returned to their residences after the curfew that has been set for lockdown Level 1. Violating the curfew without good cause does not demonstrate the kind of care we need to show one another, especially during this time.
When we invited students to return to residences, we explained that they would need to follow all the necessary health and safety protocols at UCT. Residences are places where people have a strong possibility of passing on the virus, so it is especially important for every student and staff member to follow the rules to reduce the chance of spreading infection.
If you are a student and you have any of the symptoms mentioned in the COVID-19 guidelines, please contact the Student Wellness Service immediately for healthcare support.
Although the country has moved to lockdown Level 1, staff and students are still advised and encouraged to follow three basic actions: wear a face mask, ensure safe physical distancing, and sanitise or wash hands and surfaces regularly.
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COVID-19 is a global pandemic that caused President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare a national disaster in South Africa on 15 March 2020 and to implement a national lockdown from 26 March.
UCT is taking the threat of infection in our university community extremely seriously, and this page will be updated regularly with the latest COVID-19 information. Please note that the information on this page is subject to change depending on current lockdown regulations.
Getting credible, evidence-based, accessible information and recommendations relating to COVID-19
The Department of Medicine at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, are producing educational video material for use on digital platforms and in multiple languages. The information contained in these videos is authenticated and endorsed by the team of experts based in the Department of Medicine. Many of the recommendations are based on current best evidence and are aligned to provincial, national and international guidelines. For more information on UCT’s Department of Medicine, please visit the website.
To watch more videos like these, visit the Department of Medicine’s YouTube channel.
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24 Jun 2020 - >10 min read OpinionOur scientists must not practise in isolation, but be encouraged to be creative and increase our knowledge of the needs of developing economies, write Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, vice-chancellor of UCT, and Professor Thokozani Majozi from the University of the Witwatersrand.
09 Jun 2020 - 6 min read RepublishedSouth Africa has been recognised globally for its success in flattening the curve, which came as a result of President Ramaphosa responding quickly to the crisis, writes Prof Alan Hirsch.
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09 Apr 2020 - >10 min read RepublishedIn an email to the UCT community, Vice-Chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng said:
“COVID-19, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, is a rapidly changing epidemic. [...] Information [...] will be updated as and when new information becomes available.”
We are continuing to monitor the situation and we will be updating the UCT community regularly – as and when there are further updates. If you are concerned or need more information, students can contact the Student Wellness Service on 021 650 5620 or 021 650 1271 (after hours), while staff can contact 021 650 5685.